Key Takeaways
- Kerb weight is the van’s weight in its standard running condition, while gross vehicle weight (GVW) is its maximum permitted loaded weight.
- Payload is calculated by subtracting kerb weight from GVW. Remember to account for the driver, passengers, cargo and additional equipment.
- Check your van’s weight limits using its identification plate, V5C logbook and manufacturer specifications. Use a public weighbridge if you need to verify its loaded weight.
Choosing a van needs more than just checking the specifications, as you also need to check its size and load space. You also need to understand how much it carries and the allowed maximum weight in the UK. If you get these numbers wrong, it could affect the vehicle’s handling, braking, legal compliance, and insurance cover.Â
Whether you use a van for work or plan to buy one second-hand, understanding payload, kerb weight and gross vehicle weight (GVW) can help you make a more informed choice. You can also use Smart Car Check’s van check tool to explore a vehicle’s history before buying.
What Do Kerb Weight, GVW and Payload Mean?
Van weight terminology can be confusing because each figure describes something different about a van’s weight. Kerb refers to how much weight a van could carry in its standard running condition; gross vehicle weight (GVW) sets its maximum weight when the van is loaded, and payload refers to how much additional weight a van can carry.
Kerb Weight
Kerb weight is the weight of a van in its standard running condition, including its usual operating fluids and, under the relevant definition, fuel, but excluding its load and occupants. However, the definition of Kerb Weight can vary between manufacturers and specifications, so make sure to check the figure carefully before choosing a van.
How to Calculate the Kerb Weight
To calculate the Kerb Weight, you can use this formula
Kerb Weight=GVWR-Payload Capacity
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)?
Gross vehicle weight (GVW), also known as maximum authorised mass (MAM), is the maximum permitted weight of a van when it is ready for use and carrying its load. This also includes the vehicle itself, driver, passengers, fuel, van equipment, and cargo. Please note that you CANNOT exceed the maximum Gross Vehicle Weight.Â
Van Payload
Payload is the maximum weight a van can carry without exceeding its GVW. Payload includes the load, passengers, and any equipment or accessories that are not already accounted for in the vehicle’s stated kerb weight.
Calculating Van Payload
To calculate a van payload, you can use this formula:
Payload Capacity=Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)-Kerb Weight
Where to Find the Van Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings
Before you load a van or buy a used one, you can check its weight specifications to understand how much it can legally carry. Usually, the Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings can be found on the vehicle’s V5C logbook, identification plates, or in the manufacturer’s documentation.Â
V5C Logbook
The V5C registration certificate is commonly referred to as the logbook and records the key information about the vehicle. However, the V5C might not list all weight information, so don’t rely only on one source of information; use the other paperwork to verify the information.
Identification Plates
The identification plate usually includes detailed information about the vehicle weight limit. It is commonly located on a door pillar, inside a door frame or under the bonnet, although the position varies by manufacturer.
What the Plates Show
The plate displays the vehicle identification number (VIN) alongside important weight limits, including the maximum authorised mass (MAM) and the maximum train weight for the van and a trailer combined.
Handbook or Manufacturer Specification
If you cannot find all the figures on its logbook and identification plates, you may check the owner’s handbook or the manufacturer’s technical specifications. Look for information specific to your van’s model, engine, body style, and trim, as different configurations can have different kerb weights and payload capacities.
READ ALSO: How To Check Vehicle Weight By Registration
UK Van Weight Limits and Licence Rules
A standard UK Cat B vehicle licence allows you to drive a car with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of up to 3,500kg. However, if you need to drive a heavier vehicle, you will need an additional licence plate lookup. It is important to distinguish between the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) and its actual weight.Â
The 3.5-Tonne Limit for a Standard Car Licence
For most petrol, diesel and hybrid vans, a standard Category B driving licence covers vehicles with a MAM of up to 3,500 kg. However, zero-emission or hydrogen-powered vans are exempt from this rule, as they are allowed to carry up to 4,200kg MAM under specific conditions.
Who Can Drive Vans Over 3.5 Tonnes?
Do you want to drive a van with a MAM over 3,500kg? Well, you will need an additional driving entitlement, like Category C1. Category C1 covers vehicles with a MAM between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg. Drivers who passed their car test on or after 1 January 1997 need to meet the requirements and pass the required test to get the C1 entitlement.
Check the Latest UK Driving Rules
In the UK, driving licence requirements can change, and special rules might be applied, but it depends on the vehicle, its power source, and whether you’re towing a trailer. Before hiring or buying a van, ensure you check and understand the latest UK driving rules.
How to Avoid Overloading Your Van
Keeping your van within its weight limits is always recommended, although it needs more cargo checking. You will need to account for the passengers, tools, equipment, and their limits, then you may distribute the weight before driving the vehicle.Â
We’ve found an easy way to help you simplify overloading and unnecessary weight on your vans.
Calculate Your Payload and Weigh Your Van
Use the vehicle’s weight specifications to estimate its payload, then consider weighing it if you need to confirm its total weight in loaded condition.
Work Out Your Available Payload
Don’t forget to check the van’s gross vehicle weight (GVW), also known as maximum authorised mass (MAM), and its kerb weight. Subtract the kerb weight from the maximum permitted weight to estimate the payload.Â
Use a Public Weighbridge
If you are not sure about the van’s weight when it’s fully loaded, try to take it to a suitable public weighbridge to help you compare its total weight with the allowed limit. If you are carrying heavy loads, check the individual axle weight as well.
Distribute the Load and Check Your Tyres
A van’s load distribution and tyre condition both affect how safely it handles on the road. Even if the total weight is within the permitted limit, an uneven load or incorrectly inflated tyres can create additional risks.
Secure and Distribute the Load
Place heavier items low down and secure them properly to reduce movement while driving. Distribute the load according to the manufacturer’s guidance, keeping weight within the limits for each axle. Avoid placing too much weight in one area, as this can affect the van’s stability and handling.
Check Tyre Pressure and Condition
Check your tyre pressures against the manufacturer’s recommendations for the load you’re carrying. Incorrect pressure can affect handling, braking performance, and tyre wear. Inspect the tyres for damage before setting off, particularly if your van regularly carries heavy equipment or goods.
Remove Unnecessary Weight and Check Before Every Journey
The weight inside your van can change from one journey to the next. Reviewing what you carry and checking the load before driving can help you avoid exceeding the permitted limits.
Remove Items You Don’t Need
Unused tools, spare equipment, and other items can take up valuable payload capacity. Remove anything you don’t need for the journey, especially if you regularly transport heavy goods. Reducing unnecessary weight leaves more capacity for your actual cargo.
Reassess Your Load Before Setting Off
Check your load whenever you change cargo, add passengers or carry extra equipment. Don’t assume your van is within its weight limits simply because the same load fitted safely on a previous journey. Make sure the load is secure and that neither the overall weight limit nor the individual axle limits are exceeded.
Always Check the Van Weight Before You Buy
Before you purchase a used van, it is important to check the weight and ensure your licence complies with it. Always check the vehicle’s weight specifications, account for passengers and equipment, and distribute your load safely before setting off. Also, try to check the latest UK driving regulations to see if there are any updates before you hire or purchase a used van.
READ ALSO: How Many Cars Are in the UK? A Market Insight on Licensed Vehicles
What is the difference between kerb weight and gross vehicle weight?
Kerb weight refers to a vehicle’s weight in its standard running condition, without passengers or cargo. Gross vehicle weight (GVW), on the other hand, is the maximum permitted weight of the vehicle when loaded, including the driver, passengers, fuel, equipment and cargo.
How do I work out my van's payload?
To calculate your van’s payload, subtract its kerb weight from its gross vehicle weight (GVW). For example, if the GVW is 3,500 kg and the kerb weight is 2,000 kg, the available payload is 1,500 kg.
Formula: Payload = GVW − Kerb Weight
Can I drive a 3.5 tonne van on a car licence?
Yes, if you own a standard Category B driving licence, it allows you to drive a van with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 3,500 kg, subject to the relevant licence conditions.
Does the driver count towards payload?
Yes, the driver’s weight counts towards the van’s payload capacity. Payload covers the weight carried by the vehicle, including the driver, passengers, cargo and additional equipment or accessories. These items must be accounted for to ensure the van stays within its maximum permitted weight.
How do I find my van's weight from its registration?
You can find the van’s weight on the official documentation like V5C or you may check the manufacturer information on the vehicle.
